It is with profound sadness yet a sense of gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Debra Gail Thomas. Born on June 28, 1955, in Pineville, Louisiana, Debra was a ray of light in the lives of many, a woman whose spirit shone brightly and touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. Her vibrant personality was as radiant as the earthtone colors she loved, reflecting her grounded nature and love for life.

Debra’s life was a testament to selfless service to others. In her career as a Registered Nurse, she extended her kind heart and healing hands to countless patients, embodying the essence of compassionate care. Debra’s passion for helping others didn’t end with her professional life; she was also an active member of the City Choir, touching people with the harmonious blend of her melodious voice. Away from work, Debra had a love for the simple pleasures of life. She found joy in playing Bingo, the mental challenge of Sudoku and word puzzles, and the friendly competition of a good game of Scrabble. She also had a fondness for shopping, always finding the perfect item to brighten up her day or to gift her loved ones.

As we mourn the loss of Debra, we celebrate the wonderful person she was and the remarkable life she led. We invite you to join us in honoring her life. A public viewing and visitation will be held at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 11 16th & Day Streets, Alexandria, Louisiana, 71301, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:00 am. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the same venue. Her final resting place will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 4000 Monroe Highway, Ball, Louisiana, 71405.

We encourage those who were touched by Debra to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page. Let us remember Debra not with tears, but with the joy and warmth she brought into our lives, the lessons she taught us, and the love she shared with us all.

Jaymie Dell Edwards, age 61, entered eternal rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Sabine Parish.
Services were held with interment following in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

He was preceded in death by parents, Milton Carlaine Edwards, and Eva Jewel Weatherford Edwards, grandparents, George Lee Edwards and Anna Edwards.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Jennifer Edwards, Janet Edwards, and Jeremy Edwards; siblings, Larry Edwards (Erica), Darrell L. Edwards (Vicky), Susan Edwards (Andy), and Mark Edwards (Marilyn); numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Jaymie was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He worked for many years as a Meat Market Manager for different stores before becoming a Structural Welder. Jaymie enjoyed the outdoors spending time hunting, fishing, and being with his animals. Jaymie always had a joke or funny comment ready to go whenever you would see him. He will forever be missed by those that loved and knew him.

Pallbearers honored to serve were Brent Edwards, Billy Meher, Darrell Edwards, Barry Edwards, Patrick Edwards, and Bradley Edwards.

The Pineville Police Department issued a statement addressing public concerns and misconceptions surrounding Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development traffic cameras recently placed along portions of the Pineville Expressway.

According to the department, the cameras are not used for enforcement and do not issue tickets, record license plates, measure speed, or capture identifying details of vehicle occupants. Officials emphasized that the cameras are solely traffic-monitoring tools designed to observe congestion and traffic flow, particularly during peak travel times or incidents.

Police said the cameras do not have the capability to zoom in on vehicles, collect personal data, or monitor drivers beyond basic traffic conditions. Similar cameras have been in use throughout the parish for years, often unnoticed by motorists.

The department also expressed concern over reports that a city employee was confronted publicly over the cameras, noting that misinformation has contributed to unnecessary frustration. To promote transparency, the Pineville Police Department shared that live traffic feeds from the cameras are publicly accessible, allowing residents to see firsthand the limited scope and image quality of the system.

Officials encouraged residents to continue asking questions and engaging in respectful dialogue, reiterating their commitment to keeping the community informed and addressing concerns as they arise.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited a subject on Dec. 1 for alleged deer hunting violations in Rapides Parish.

Agents cited Jarrod S. Gypin, 38, of Alexandria, for taking over the limit of deer, taking deer using illegal methods, taking deer during illegal hours and hunting while under a hunting license revocation.

Agents received information on Nov. 28 about Gypin harvesting deer illegally. During the investigation, agents discovered that Gypin harvested seven deer during the 2025-26 deer-hunting season while under hunting license revocation.

Agents also learned that Gypin took two of the deer with a shotgun during an archery only season and two of the deer illegally at night with a .308 caliber rifle.

Agents seized the deer meat and donated the meat to Hunters for the Hungry. Agents also seized a .308 caliber rifle.

The seasonal limit for deer is six and seasonal limit for antlered deer is three for the area Gypin harvested his deer.

Taking deer during illegal hours brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail. Taking over the limit of deer, taking deer using illegal methods and hunting while under a hunting license revocation carries a $250 to $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

Gypin will also face civil restitution totaling $4,800 for the replacement value of the illegally taken deer.

Agents participating in the case are Sgt. James Bruce, Corporal Ryan Durand and Lt. Derek Ware.

Paul Dennis Schmidt, age 60, passed away on December 15, 2025, in Pineville, Louisiana.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of Gallagher Funeral Home in Ball, Louisiana. Friends and family are invited to share words of reflection beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Paul was born on August 27, 1965, in Destin, Florida. He dedicated his working life to the healthcare field, where he served as a rehabilitation technician. Through his work, Paul assisted others on their path to recovery, offering steady support and compassionate care to those in need. His quiet dedication and genuine concern for others left a lasting impact on the lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Ellis Schmidt and Frances Bonnette Schmidt Philpot.
Paul is survived by his loving sister, Pam Cetta, and her husband, Jim, of Tickfaw, Louisiana; his cherished nieces, Samantha Cetta and Danielle Cetta; and his stepfather and “dad,” David Philpot, of Pineville, Louisiana.

Paul will be remembered for his quiet dedication, his willingness to always put others before himself, and the deep love he held for his family. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

We celebrate and remember the life of Joseph Patterson, born on September 7, 1943, in Marksville, LA, who left us on December 13, 2025. Joseph, a resident of Alexandria, Louisiana, was a man who lived life to its fullest. His life was a testament to service, faith, and love. Before retirement, Joseph served the nation as a Cadre Sergeant in the United States Army, a role which he held with pride and honor. Beyond his professional life, Joseph was a man of vibrant interests. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life – a good meal, the thrill of a lucky draw at the casino, and the serenity of a quiet fishing trip.

Joseph was a dedicated member of the Knights of Peter Claver Council #268 of Alexandria. He was a true parishioner at St. Juliana Catholic Church, where he served as an usher, always welcoming everyone with his gentle smile. His Catholic faith was a guiding force in his life, and his devotion was an inspiration to all who knew him. His favorite color, baby blue, mirrored his personality – calm, peaceful, and full of depth.

Joseph was a loving father and grandfather, always there to lend an ear or share a word of wisdom. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved him. He now joins his parents, Dudley Patterson Sr. and Bertha Boyer, as well as his wife, Ina Patterson in eternal rest.

To honor Joseph’s life, a public viewing and visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 8:00 am at St. Juliana Catholic Church, 900 Daspit Street, Alexandria, Louisiana. This will be followed by a Rosary, at 9:30 am and a Catholic Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at the same venue. Military Honors will be rendered at the conclusion of the Mass.

We encourage everyone to visit Joseph’s memorial page to leave memories and upload photos as a tribute to his life. Your shared stories and images will serve as a comforting reminder of the man we loved and will forever cherish in our hearts.

The Central Louisiana Community Foundation volunteered Friday with The Rotary Club of Alexandria to support the club’s annual Doll & Toy Program. Members of the foundation’s team assisted with unpacking and organizing toys to help ensure families could shop easily and efficiently for their children.

Foundation representatives said the experience highlighted the dedication of local organizations working together to brighten the holiday season for children and families across the community.

The Woodworth shooting range will be closed Dec. 25–26 and Jan. 1–2 in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). The range will be open during normal hours on Dec. 27–28 and Jan. 3–4.

The Woodworth shooting range is located at 661 Robinson Bridge Road in Woodworth.

By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University

You remember the excitement of freshman year. You picked out the dorm decor, bought the textbooks, and had a clear picture of how college was supposed to go.

But sometimes, despite the hard work you’ve put in, the reality doesn’t match the dream. Maybe the campus feels too big and impersonal, or perhaps the program isn’t what you expected.

For many students across Louisiana, coming home for a weekend or a semester break brings a quiet realization: the school you chose at 18 might not be the school you need to become the professional you want to be.

There is a common misconception that transferring means failure or, worse, losing all the ground you have gained. The fear of wasted credits and tangled paperwork often keeps students stuck in places where they aren’t thriving.

At Northwestern State University, the philosophy is different. We believe that realizing you need a change isn’t a step back. It is a step toward a future that fits.

The biggest hurdle to transferring is the uncertainty. Will my classes count? Will I graduate late? These questions create a gap between where a student is and where they want to be.

“We get it. Transferring can feel stressful because of the unknowns,” says Emily Miller, Director of Recruiting at NSU. “Our goal is to close that gap immediately. From day one, we provide a dedicated transfer advisor and fast credit evaluation. We look at the work you’ve already done and find every possible way to apply it to a degree at NSU. We want you to move forward, not start over.”

This approach transforms the process from a bureaucratic headache into a personalized welcome. Whether you are looking for the traditional on-campus experience in Natchitoches or the flexibility of our robust online programs, the focus remains on the individual student.

One of the primary reasons students transfer to NSU is the desire for connection. It is easy to feel like a number in a lecture hall of 400 people. Northwestern offers a different environment, one defined by small classes and professors who actually know your name.

“Transferring to NSU was one of my best decisions,” says Chris James, a Communication Arts and New Media transfer student. “From the start, I felt like I’d found a place to grow. I’ve covered live events with ESPN+ and worked with NSU TV News, the student newspaper, yearbook, and on-campus radio station, pushing me further than I imagined.”

“When a student joins the Demon family, they are bringing their unique story and potential to our campus,” says James T. Genovese, President of Northwestern State University. “We empower every student to shape their future. We are committed to providing the culture, the scholarships, and the academic support to ensure every transfer student finishes strong.”

This commitment includes scholarships specifically designed to recognize the progress transfer students have already made. It is a validation that your previous hard work matters here.

If you are feeling like your current college isn’t the right fit, you don’t have to wait a year to fix it. You can change your trajectory right now.

Spring classes at Northwestern State University begin January 12, 2026, and registration is currently open.

Ready to become a Demon? Visit nsu.la/transfer to see how your credits transfer and start your application today.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Alexandria Police Department, Pineville Police Department, Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole, and the Louisiana State Police, announced a proactive law enforcement initiative aimed at keeping shoppers safe during the final week before Christmas. The effort is titled Operation: Safe Christmas.

The initiative will include increased uniformed and plainclothes patrols in retail areas throughout Alexandria, Pineville, and surrounding communities. The operation is designed to deter theft and other property crimes while increasing law enforcement visibility during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. Officers will focus on preventing shoplifting, vehicle break-ins, and other criminal activity while also providing safety guidance to shoppers.

Operation: Safe Christmas will feature an enhanced visible law enforcement presence in shopping centers, malls, and business parking lots, along with undercover patrols. Agencies involved emphasized that the operation is a coordinated effort among local and state law enforcement partners working together to ensure public safety.

Shoppers are encouraged to take precautions while visiting retail areas, including staying alert and aware of their surroundings, avoiding cell phone distractions, parking in well-lit areas, locking vehicle doors, keeping valuables out of sight, reporting suspicious activity, and shopping with a companion when possible.

Officials said the goal of the operation is to help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday shopping experience for everyone and extended well wishes for a safe and Merry Christmas

Antonio “Crusty” Martinez Nichols, a radiant spirit born in Pineville, LA on May 24, 1995, was a wellspring of love, laughter, and life. An entertainer at heart, Antonio loved to rap and make music, filling rooms with joyous energy and captivating his audience. His sense of humor was as infectious as his love for royal blue – a color as vibrant and lively as he was.

Young Antonio, who found pleasure in the simple joys of hunting and fishing in his early years, later discovered an unmatched passion for being a father. In the face of life’s melodies and harmonies, it was this role that played the most profound note in his symphony.

Antonio, who resided in Colfax, Louisiana, was a beloved son, brother, and nephew whose vivacious spirit and memory will always be held near and dear to the hearts of those he loved. Public viewing and visitation will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 10:00 am at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church in Lena, Louisiana. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 11:00 am, and interment will be at Flatwoods Cemetery Road in Flatwoods, Louisiana.

Antonio’s captivating spirit will continue to resonate through his music, his humor, and his love for his family. We encourage friends and loved ones to share their memories and upload photos of Antonio to his memorial page, keeping his legacy alive and celebrating the extraordinary life he lived.

November 12, 1970 – December 10, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Pamela Gail Burns, a cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Pamela’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and kindness, touching the lives of many in her community.

Born and raised in the Rapides Parish School System, Pamela’s early education was rooted in the foundations of Tioga High School. She furthered her skills at the Job Corps, where she gained expertise in concrete finishing and culinary arts. Pamela’s heart found its true purpose in ministry, especially through her compassionate work feeding the homeless-a reflection of her unwavering desire to help others, regardless of their circumstances.

A devoted member of God’s House of Prayer Ministry, Pamela was deeply committed to her faith and her church community. She was adored by her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly, and was a true friend to many, always ready to lend a helping hand without hesitation.

Pamela was preceded in death by her father, Frank Bell, Jr.; brother, Zacheary C. Bell; sister, Loletha Bell; maternal grandmother, Lily Marie Burns; and stepfather, Charles Dorty, Sr.

She leaves behind three beloved children: Akeymean Burns, Denise Burns, and Lily Burns, all of Alexandria, Louisiana; her loving mother, Marjorie Kirklin; and several grandchildren who will carry her memory forward. She is also survived by three sisters-Takedra (John), Latonya Bell, and Victoria Bell-and two brothers, Frank Bell III and Devonte Bell, all of Alexandria, Louisiana. Pamela’s extended family includes a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends who will miss her dearly.

A homegoing service to celebrate Pamela’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m.with viewing from 10:00 am until 11:00 am on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at God’s House of Prayer Ministry, 16 Bolton Avenue, Alexandria, LA 71302, with Apostle Angela Davis officiating. Interment will follow at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Alexandria.

Pamela Gail Burns will be remembered for her generous spirit, faithful heart, and the lasting impact she made on those lucky enough to know her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

The Pineville Downtown Development District is celebrating the first completed project under its Facade Decorative Lighting Grant Program. Candiloro & Co. Photography, a creative studio known for capturing compelling visual stories, was the inaugural recipient. The new decorative lighting highlights the artistic energy of their downtown space, enhancing both the building and the streetscape. Before-and-after photos showcase the dramatic transformation, marking a bright start for the program aimed at revitalizing Pineville’s downtown.

After a combined 96 years of service, Retired Assistant Chief Murdock and Retired Captain Basco are officially retiring from the City of Pineville. Both began their careers decades ago and, even after an earlier retirement, returned as civilian employees to maintain the department’s fleet and support daily operations. Their official last day will be December 26, 2025. The city thanks them for their decades of dedication and wishes them a retirement filled with health, happiness, and well-earned rest.

It is with heartfelt sadness that the family announces the passing of a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, Louis G. “Buddy” Chatagnier, Jr., an 84-year-old proud United States Air Force veteran whose life was defined by service, passion, and an unwavering competitive spirit.

Services were held on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 12 pm at the church with Bishop Anthony Mangun and Pastor Gentry Mangun. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery following the services.

A dedicated airman in his younger years, he carried immense pride in his military service and the values it instilled in him-discipline, loyalty, and honor. These qualities followed him throughout his life and shaped the man so many came to admire.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, he found joy in anything athletic, but golf held a special place in his heart. Whether on the course with friends or watching tournaments on TV, he cherished every moment tied to the game. His competitive nature extended beyond the green-he was a formidable force on the racquetball court, where he loved nothing more than outplaying the younger guys and proving that age was no match for skill and determination.

His love for athletics didn’t stop there. A talented and respected boxer in his younger days, he earned the distinguished honor of being inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame, a testament to his grit, discipline, and devotion to the sport. He was also a bus route captain in Beaumont, Tx at New Life Tabernacle for 25 years and was also the bus route captain for 20 years at The Pentecostals of Alexandria.

Outside of athletics, he nurtured hobbies that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and history. He enjoyed collecting knives and old coins, each piece treasured and carefully chosen, each carrying a story he delighted in sharing.

Above all, he will be remembered for his humor, his generous heart, his competitive spark, and the deep love he held for his family and friends. His presence filled every room he entered, and his absence will be felt by all who were blessed to know him.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Louis G. Chatagnier Sr. and Thelma Chatagnier and brother, Gregory Chatagnier.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 56 years, despite the odds against them, Gloria; his son, Brandon (Nicole); grandchildren, Magan, Haley, Alyssa, Patience, Addy, Colby, and Collins; brothers, Kenneth (Angie) and Keith (Janet); sisters, Lynn Brown, Jana Chatagnier, and Dana Altazin (Keith); along with a host of nieces and nephews. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, passion, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Special thanks to the VA staff for the last 10+ years of exemplary service to Buddy. Also, thanks to the Hilltop staff: Dusty, Santana, Amiracle, Janet, Nurses Todd and Mykala, and our other bus route kids.
May he rest in peace, forever honored and forever missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Revi Recovery Center.

Jaymie Dale Edwards, age 61, entered eternal rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Sabine Parish.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Gallagher Funeral Home. Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. with interment to follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

He was preceded in death by parents, Milton Carlaine Edwards, and grandparents, George Lee Edwards and Anna Edwards.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Jennifer Edwards, Janet Edwards, and Jeremy Edwards; siblings, Larry Edwards (Erica), Darrell L. Edwards (Vicky), Susan Edwards (Andy), and Mark Edwards (Marilyn); numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Jaymie was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He worked for many years as a Meat Market Manager for different stores before becoming a Structural Welder. Jaymie enjoyed the outdoors spending time hunting, fishing, and being with his animals. Jaymie always had a joke or funny comment ready to go whenever you would see him. He will forever be missed by those that loved and knew him.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Brent Edwards, Billy Meher, Darrell Edwards, Barry Edwards, Patrick Edwards, and Bradley Edwards.

The Alexandria Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred on Dec. 15 in the 5900 block of Marthas Drive. According to police, officers responded to the scene at approximately 4:20 p.m. and learned that a 31-year-old man, identified as Avery Lewis, had been shot. Investigators said preliminary information indicated that Lewis jumped into a parked delivery truck in a threatening manner. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Robin Volson, discharged a firearm in what police described as self-defense and immediately contacted APD to report the incident.

Lewis sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Police said the incident appears to be connected to a prior shooting that occurred on Nov. 8 in the 1800 block of Henry Street. That incident, investigated by the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, involved a home invasion in which Volson shot and killed an intruder, Devante Thomas. Investigators determined that Lewis and Thomas were known acquaintances, and evidence suggests the Marthas Drive shooting may have been motivated by retaliation related to the earlier incident.

Authorities stated they believe the shooting was an isolated incident involving two individuals. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and no charges have been filed against Volson at this time.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Alexandria Police Department Detective Division at (318) 441-6416 or APD Dispatch at (318) 441-6559. Tips may also be emailed to APDDetectives@cityofalex.com. Anonymous tips eligible for a cash reward can be submitted through Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867 or through the P3 Tipster app.

The Rapides Parish School Board recognized achievements in early childhood education last week as the Rapides Early Childhood Network gathered to review progress from the 2024–2025 school year. District officials reported an increase in the overall district profile score, which rose from 5.93 to 5.98.

The updated scores reflect growth across multiple early learning settings throughout the parish. Among schools serving early childhood students, 17 sites earned an Excellent rating, up from nine the previous year, while 11 were rated High Proficient. Early Learning Centers reported 20 Excellent ratings, 13 High Proficient, and two Proficient. Head Start programs recorded three Excellent sites, three High Proficient, and two Proficient.

School officials credited the progress to the collective efforts of early childhood educators, support staff, families, and community partners. The district emphasized that strong early learning programs play a critical role in building long-term academic success for students.

The community gathered at Alexandria National Cemetery in Pineville for the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony. At 11 a.m., more than 1,600 wreaths were laid on the graves of local veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice. Organizers thanked attendees for helping remember, honor, and teach future generations about these heroes.

A Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office team participated in the Alexandria City Marshal and Pineville City Marshal’s annual “Shop with a Cop” event. Deputies spent time with local children, helping make the holiday season a little brighter. The sheriff’s office thanked Jerome Hopewell and Murphy Rachal of the Pineville City Marshal for including them in the community-focused event.

Elmo, age 88, of Marksville, Louisiana, entered eternal rest on Friday, December 12, 2025, at his home surrounded by his lovely wife and daughter. Eternal rest service for Elmo Brossette will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Gallagher Funeral Home at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Andrew Cox officiating. Visitation for Elmo will begin at 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Rachal Cemetery in Marco, Louisiana under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Brossette and Angela Delouche Brossette; two brothers, Milton Brossette and Andrew Brossette, five sisters, Ruth Brossette, Zelia B. Rachal, Mable B. Rachal, Daisy Brossette, and Rosa B. Rachal; his only son, Randall G. Brossette; and grandson, Seth Alexander Johnson; and brother-in-law, Sam Vercher, Jr.

He is survived by his wife Barbara Vercher Brossette; daughter, Lisa B. Johnson; two grandsons, Corey B. Brossette and Dalton Johnson; one lovely granddaughter, Carleza “Karlee” Johnson; and one great granddaughter, Emberly Rose Johnson; and many nieces and nephews.

Elmo G. Brossette was born on July 19, 1937, to the late Willie Brossette and Angela Delouche Brossette of Melrose. He retired, having worked as a Radio and Television Technician for over 35 years. He married his high school sweetheart, Barbara, and they celebrated their 66th anniversary on August 1, 2025. He loved country music and was a big fan of George Jones, having attended numerous concerts over the years. After heart surgery in 2005, Elmo was surprised with a signed color photo from George reading, “to Elmo”. Thanks to a connection that his daughter, Lisa, had with a pastor’s wife in Nashville.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Ricky Vercher, Corey Brossette, Marty Fletcher, Tony Normand, Rick Walters, and Ray Ogborn. Honorary Pallbearer is Garland Brossette.